After several mildly disappointing visits since 2010, the restaurant fell off my radar, especially since some friends experienced similar disappointments. I’m sure that many regulars continued to love it, but in the last year the talk turned more positive. In December, the Zagat Survey rated it as the top restaurant in San Francisco.

It was time to return, and while I’ll avoid getting into the “best” discussion, Kokkari has certainly tightened the operation, leading to today’s three-star review.

The calamari stuffed with goat cheese, the fried chicken livers and the lamb chops are truly top class, as are much of the other items on the extensive menu.

This rejuvenation is impressive since Cosselmon and his crew cook for a lot of people. The restaurant seats 185 and when I was there earlier this week there were also several large parties, which is always a challenge.

So I’m pleased that this Greek-inspired restaurant has found its way to the top again.